The Tánaiste says the state will always make sure its citizens are protected.

But Frances Fitzgerald has again stopped short of saying there is a contingency plan in case Gardai go on strike next month.

Although the army may be deployed if the Defence Forces are deployed during a GRA strike, they will not have powers of arrest.

Frances Fitzgerald again this afternoon refused to say if that would be a problem: “It’s no question of saying that, the state has an obligation always to look after it’s citizens, the state will always look after its citizens.

“But the point is what is the most productive thing to focus on right now is how we can engage again, and discuss the outstanding issues that the GRA are concerned about.

“But the of course the state will always deal with whatever situation arises.”